The Houthis’ Al Masira television said that rockets were aimed at the Saudi defence ministry and other targets in the Saudi capital. Reuters could not verify the report independently.

“The missile force confirms that Burkan (Volcano) rockets hit their targets in Riyadh with high precision,” it added, without elaborating.

At least six loud explosions were heard, bright flashes were seen in the sky over Riyadh, and puffs of smoke were visible above the city, a Reuters witness said.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage, but there was shrapnel on a street in the diplomatic quarter where most embassies are located and many foreigners live, a Reuters witness said.

A high security presence was seen in the neighbourhood, in addition to firefighters, the witness added. There was no comment from the Saudi authorities or from the Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen against the Houthi movement.